In 1991 Gerin's top cuvee of Cote Rotie, Les Grandes Places (made from very old vines), boasts an opaque dark ruby/purple color, a superb nose of jammy black fruits, exotic spices, smoke, and new oak. Rich, with layers of fruit, low acidity, and a spectacularly long finish, this voluptuously-textured, rich, concentrated wine is a classic example of Cote Rotie. It should drink well for the next 10-15 years. The 1991 Cote Rotie Les Grandes Places and the 1991 Cote Rotie Champin Le Seigneur are the two most impressive Cote Roties Gerin has produced in nearly two decades. Importers: Langdon-Shiverick, Chagrin Falls, OH; Tel. (216) 247-6868 and New Castle Imports, Myrtle Beach, SC; Tel. (803) 497-8625

The 1991 Cote Rotie-Grand Place, reputedly Gerin's top cuvee of Cote Rotie, exhibits a fragrant, sweet oaky nose, ripe, fleshy, black-raspberry flavors, medium to full body, soft tannins, low acidity, and a lush finish. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.